Written by Scott Fischer, BSN, CPRS, CDP – Owner, Options for Senior Living. It's been almost 23 years since I started the Options for Senior Living business. At the time, it was just me, wanting more than anything to do something worthwhile.
The Early Days
I started my business because I wanted to be able to go to daytime baseball games whenever I wanted. Within a relatively short period, I understood the profession I had chosen was not one looked upon with respect and favor. We were seen by most as greedy, unprofessional, and unethical as a whole.
Building a Professional Association
A little over 14 years ago, a dear colleague and I were challenged to do something about those 'damn placement people.' We used this inspiration to establish a group known today as PASRS. The group incorporated and became a 501(c)6 trade association. This put us closer to being viewed as dependable professionals and respected in the senior living profession.
The Path to National Certification
In 2017, I was asked to serve on the national board of directors for the National Placement and Referral Alliance (NPRA). As we organized nationally, it became imperative to adopt initiatives that agents from across the country could rally behind. In August 2018, a dozen dedicated professionals met in Denver to begin developing a national certification program. On a Saturday morning in January 2020, the first 77 candidates took the national certification examination.
Why Certification Matters
Without licensure and with minimal legislation across the country, certification and voluntary best practices are the best we can do to elevate the industry. I am so proud to have taken this test and be counted among my peers as a professional who truly cares about our industry, our reputation with our senior living provider partners, our referral sources, and the families we serve.
Contact Options for Senior Living at 602-845-1320 for expert, certified senior placement guidance.
